Volunteer Coordinator

Position Type: Part-time (volunteer)

Reports To: Operations Manager, Mines Museum of Earth Science

Location: Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO

Position Summary

The Mines Museum of Earth Science seeks a dedicated and dynamic Volunteer Coordinator to grow and sustain our vibrant volunteer community. The coordinator will oversee volunteer recruitment, onboarding, training, scheduling, and recognition to support the museum’s mission of “fostering an appreciation of Earth, energy, and the environment through exploration, engagement, and enlightenment.”

This position plays a central role in connecting volunteers, student workers, and staff to create meaningful experiences during tours, events, educational programs, and outreach activities such as Free First Friday Nights, Spooktacular, Celebration of Mines, Open House, and special exhibits.

Key Responsibilities

Recruitment & Onboarding

• Develop creative recruitment strategies to attract diverse volunteers from the Mines community and beyond.
• Manage application intake and conduct orientation sessions introducing volunteers to museum history, operations, and policies.
• Match volunteers with suitable roles (docents, greeters, collections support, events, retail, education, and outreach).
• Collaborate with student leads to integrate volunteers effectively alongside paid staff and student workers.

Training & Development

• Maintain and update volunteer training materials, checklists, and digital guides.
• Provide or coordinate role-specific training in partnership with department leads (education, collections, retail, etc.).
• Encourage continuing education and engagement through enrichment opportunities like behind-the-scenes tours and speaker events.

Scheduling & Communication

• Oversee volunteer scheduling using shared calendars and scheduling tools.
• Ensure consistent coverage at the front desk, docent stations, and during major museum events.
• Communicate regularly through email newsletters, announcements, and meetings.

Recognition & Retention

• Lead the Volunteer Recognition Program (Golden Geode and Legacy Lode Awards, years-of-service pins, and appreciation events).
• Coordinate annual recognition events such as the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon.
• Maintain volunteer records, attendance logs, and award histories.

Administration & Support

• Manage volunteer database and contact lists.
• Track hours and contributions for reporting and grant support.
• Provide logistical and on-site support during public programs, rentals, and educational outreach.
• Report directly to the Operations Manager to align volunteer support with museum goals and special projects.

Qualifications

Preferred Skills and Attributes:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable engaging with students, families, and community members.
• Proven organizational ability, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience in volunteer coordination, museum operations, or educational programming preferred.
• Familiarity with earth sciences, geology, or museum education a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software.
• Creativity, flexibility, and a sense of humor that aligns with the museum’s engaging and community-oriented culture.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent experience in museum, education, or volunteer management).
• Experience supervising or training teams of volunteers or student staff.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office, exhibit, and event settings.
• Some evening and weekend availability required for events and programs.
• Must be able to stand, walk, and lift up to 25 lbs for setup and teardown of event materials.